Visions: BC’s Mental Health and Addictions Journal is seeking a personal experience story from an older adult (60+) OR family member of one!

An upcoming issue of Visions magazine is focusing on Mind-Body and the interconnections between mental and physical health.

Visions’ editor is looking for an older adult (60+)—or family member of an older adult—who is willing to share their story of the mental health impact of a sudden loss of physical health and functioning—maybe from accident, injury, an event related to aging, or a chronic condition that developed only in later-life. They’d like to hear your story of dealing with the loss of functioning (maybe short-term, maybe long-term) and how it affected mental well-being and how that in turn impacts physical recovery. And how you have moved forward to improve overall well-being—or supported a loved one during this difficult transition. Contributors need to be living in BC, and a family member could be any age, and any relationship (partner, sibling, child, close friend!)

Articles are written in plain language with an informal tone. According to the editor, “You don’t have to be a ‘writer.’ If you can write an email or a letter, you can write for Visions!” Articles are only a page and half long and you will have 3 weeks to write it. If you’re thinking of writing an article, you must contact the editor before you begin writing.

Contact: visions@heretohelp.bc.ca

The contributor of an approved article would get a $75 honorarium and at least 3 free copies when the issue publishes in October.

For more about Visions magazine: http://www.heretohelp.bc.ca/visions

BCCPD is hosting an information session for anyone thinking of joining the UBC Health Mentors Program. Health Mentors are people living with a disability or chronic illness or a caregiver. Mentors help health sciences students understand disability and chronic illness from the perspective of the individual and family. Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/mdobf9k.

Representatives from the Health Mentors Program will provide an overview and answer questions at the BCCPD office July 16th 1:30-2:30 pm. To register, contact Shelley at wdi@bccpd.bc.ca or 604-875-0188.

BC Place lit up in blue and purple lights.

Monday, May 12th, 2014, Sunset to 11:00PM

BC Place will glow blue and purple Monday, May 12th, in support of International ME/CFS & FM Awareness Day, and as part of the “May 12th Light Up the Night Challenge”. The event is supported by both the National ME/FM Action Network and the MEFM Society of BC to bring awareness to the experience and needs of people living with ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and FM (Fibromyalgia).

Close to 100,000 British Columbians are living with these disabling and often misunderstood diseases. If you would like more information about ME/CFS or FM, please contact the National ME/FM Action Network (www.mefmaction.com) or the MEFM Society of BC (www.mefm.bc.ca).